How to Win on Pokies

By Raymond Erickson

Pokies, or slots, have become a favorite pastime for many players worldwide. They have easy-to-play mechanics and the potential for big wins, and this makes them so popular. However, with so many games available, players often look for strategies to increase their chances of winning. Although pokies are games of chance, understanding specific tips can help you make smarter choices. Our team has tested various games to see how to win on online pokies, and now we’re ready to share the results with you!

What Are Pokies?

Pokies, also known as slot machines, are popular online casino games that have become a big part of New Zealand’s casino scene. Originally, they were developed in the early 20th century. However, they took off in New Zealand during the 1980s when slot machines started appearing in pubs, bars, and clubs. Today, they’re not only found in casinos but also widely played on online platforms. 

With themes, bonus rounds, and jackpots, online pokies offer a variety for gamblers.  On top of that, they are very easy to play –- gamblers only need to place a bet and click the play button. There’s no need to build an effective strategy on how to win on pokies. This versatility and ease of play are the reasons why pokies remain the most loved casino games in both land-based and online casinos in New Zealand.

Key Features of Pokies

Before reviewing techniques on how to win pokies, you have to learn the game basics. Check out the key features free online slots typically have.

  • Wild Symbols: These special symbols substitute other symbols and help complete winning lines.
  • Scatters and Free Spins: Scatters trigger free spins or multipliers. When you land a set number (depending on a specific pokie), you’ll unlock multiple free spins. As a result, your winning chances are higher.
  • Bonus Rounds and Multipliers: Extra rounds add excitement; multipliers increase winnings by multiplying payouts, sometimes by 2x, 3x, or more.
  • Return to Player and Volatility: If you wish to learn how to win on Pokie Machines NZ, check the RTP rate. It shows the percentage of returns players can expect in some time. Volatility shows how often and how much you can win.

Best Time to Play Pokies

We all want to know how to win on the pokies, but trying to find the perfect time to play does not guarantee stable wins. However, timing can make a difference in how rewarding your session feels. For example, experts recommend playing late evenings or weekends. Some say that higher jackpots are available at peak casino hours. This may lead to superb progressive jackpots or frequent bonus rounds.

Online casinos also offer special promo periods that align with local holidays. This is when you get FS, cashback, no deposit or deposit bonuses. All these promos allow gamblers to boost gameplay without spending more. So, subscribe to NZ casinos and keep track of daily, weekly, or seasonal bonuses — increase your credits or spin opportunities.

Tips and Strategies to Win on Pokies

Let’s jump into a few tips that will help you learn how to win pokies jackpot.

  • Understand the Game Mechanics

    You should examine the table of payouts and find out more about the symbols, bonuses, and special options.

  • Adjust Bet Sizes

    If you face doubts, begin with smaller bets. Gradually, you can increase your stakes. The thing is that the bigger your bets, the more your winnings can be.

  • Bankroll Management

    Playing a pokie is a highly emotional activity. But if you find yourself going a bit overboard, it’s best to set a hard limit on what you’re comfortable losing before you even start. Stick to that number—no matter what!

How to Choose the Best Pokies

If it’s your first run with playing slots, it may be tough to pick the right pokie. Look at our tips.

  1. Step 1 High RTP Pokies

    If you’re after some solid bang for your buck, look for new pokies with a high RTP, better over 95%. These beauties give you a better crack at winning.

  2. Step 2 Volatility Preference

    High-volatility pokies are a fantastic ride; they dish out big wins now and then but keep you waiting. Low-volatility games give more steady payouts. Keep this in mind when choosing slots.

  3. Step 3 Game Themes and Features

    Go with the games that catch your eye! Once you look into the library, you’ll find slot machines covering different themes. Cartoonish, Ancient Greece, movies, horror, holidays — choose the one you like and play!

TOP 5 Pokies to Play On 

If you struggle to make the right choice, look into our selection of the hottest pokie games.

  • Mega Moolah

    Mega Moolah

    RTP 88.12%
    Provider Microgaming
  • Book of 99

    Book of 99

    RTP 99%
    Provider Relax Gaming
  • Lucky Lady’s Clover

    Lucky Lady’s Clover

    RTP 97.31%
    Provider
  • Hawaii Cocktails

    Hawaii Cocktails

    RTP 97.3%
    Provider
  • After Night Falls

    After Night Falls

    RTP 97.27%
    Provider betsoft

Book of 99 – Relax Gaming, 99%
Known for its RTP of 99%, Book of 99 offers players a Greek mythology-inspired experience with many special symbols, free spins,  and high volatility. If you prefer big wins over fewer, riskier spins​, this one is for you.

Mega Moolah – Microgaming, 88-90%

Although Mega Moolah has a low RTP compared to others, it’s a progressive jackpot game, which means the payouts can be life-changing. The game covers the African Safari theme and has wilds, FS, and scatters. The betting range varies from $0,01 to $6,25.

Lucky Lady’s Clover – BGaming, 97,31%
The slot has a classic Irish theme and an RTP of 97.31%. Plus, it comes with lucky symbols like clovers and horseshoes. Thanks to the gamble feature, players can double their winnings and earn a decent income. Overall, if you are looking for a slot machine that pays the most, this one might be a good choice.

Hawaii Cocktails – BGaming, 97,3%
Hawaii Cocktails has a 97.3% RTP and includes beach-themed symbols. Its standout feature is the wild symbol, which can trigger impressive payouts. Overall, Hawaii cocktails is perfect for those looking for simple gameplay and high rewards​.

After Night Falls – Betsoft, 97,27%
This detective-themed slot, with a 97.27% RTP, draws players into a story-driven experience. This pokie has extra spins and random multipliers.

Winning Myths and Facts About Pokies

When searching online for techniques on how to win on Pokie Machines NZ, you’ll find a lot of facts that can be useful and strange at the same time. A common tale is the idea of “hot and cold” machines. The thing is that the pokie outcome is based on the RNG, so the result doesn’t depend on you. A big win now doesn’t make the next spin more or less likely to win.

RTP is a real stat that shows the average payout a game gives back over time. But here’s the kicker: RTP gets measured over thousands of spins. For any one session, results can swing way up or down. However, high RTP slots pay more.

How to Play Pokies on Mobile

Nothing is more exciting than playing pokies on the go. Tips on how to win on pokies on your smartphone and tablet remain the same. You should find a casino with a 3d party app or a website optimized for mobile devices. Download the app, log into the account, and choose a pokie to play. It’s very convenient because you have your pokie casino in your pocket. Plus, some mobile sites offer better graphics, smooth gameplay, and easy navigation. Popular casinos like PlayAmo and Royal Vegas have mobile apps for Android or iOS devices. Applications can be downloaded from the website, the Apple Store, or Google Playmarket. Popular casinos like PlayAmo and Royal Vegas offer downloadable apps, so if playing mobile slots is more convenient for you, feel free to install them.

FAQs

  • Does the RTP of a pokie game affect my chances of winning?

    Yes, it represents the percentage of wagered money that the game will return to players. For example, if a game has an RTP of 96%, you can expect that, on average, the game will pay back 96% of the money wagered.

  • Yes, online pokies are based on Random Number Generators (RNG), which means that every spin is independent. You can check out our tips on how to win on the pokies, but in 98% of cases, the outcome depends on luck.

  • Almost all trusted gambling sites feature promotions such as welcome bonuses, cashback, FS, reloads, etc.

  • There’s no secret technique on how to win on pokie machines NZ, as the outcome of every spin is determined by a random number generator. Choosing high RTP slots may increase your odds over time. Plus, using FS or welcome offers can extend your gaming without extra risk.